Lasagna is a beloved Italian classic, but have you ever wondered how to give it a delightful Indian twist? This Veg Lasagna in Indian Style brings together the rich flavors of Indian spices and fresh vegetables layered with creamy béchamel and cheesy goodness.
Perfectly suited for those who adore bold spices yet crave a comforting oven-baked meal, this recipe is a fantastic way to fuse two culinary traditions. Whether it’s for a special family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy both vegetarians and spice lovers alike.
In this recipe, we’ll use easily available Indian spices like garam masala, turmeric, and cumin, combined with fresh paneer and vibrant vegetables to create a harmonious blend of taste and texture. The result is a luscious, flavorful lasagna that’s hearty, wholesome, and utterly irresistible.
Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in a variety of vegetables for a nutritious meal that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Indian-style veg lasagna is a fusion masterpiece that balances the creamy richness of traditional lasagna with the bold, aromatic spices of Indian cuisine. It’s a one-dish meal packed with nutrition and bursting with flavors.
- Unique fusion: Combines Italian layering with Indian spices for an exciting twist.
- Vegetable-packed: Loaded with seasonal veggies to keep it healthy and colorful.
- Kid-friendly: Mildly spiced and cheesy, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready for convenience.
- Customizable: Easily adapted to vegan or gluten-free versions.
Ingredients
- Lasagna sheets: 12-15 sheets (preferably no-boil)
- Mixed vegetables: 1 cup chopped carrots, 1 cup green beans, 1 cup bell peppers, 1 cup peas
- Paneer: 200 grams, crumbled or cubed
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Tomatoes: 3 medium, pureed
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
- Green chili: 1, finely chopped (optional)
- Spices: 1 tsp garam masala, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp cumin seeds, 1 tsp coriander powder
- Fresh cream or thick yogurt: 1/2 cup
- Grated cheese: 1 cup (mozzarella or processed cheese)
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Milk: 2 cups (warm)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves: for garnish
- Olive oil or vegetable oil: 2 tbsp
Equipment
- Baking dish (9×13 inch or similar)
- Large frying pan or skillet
- Medium saucepan for béchamel sauce
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and chopping board
- Grater (for cheese)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop all vegetables uniformly. Steam or lightly boil the carrots, green beans, peas, and bell peppers just until tender but still crisp. Set aside.
- Cook the masala base: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add aromatics and spices: Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chili. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then add turmeric, coriander powder, and garam masala, cooking for another minute.
- Incorporate tomatoes: Pour in the pureed tomatoes and cook until the mixture thickens and oil separates from the masala, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add vegetables and paneer: Mix in the steamed vegetables and crumbled paneer. Cook for 4-5 minutes to combine flavors. Stir in the fresh cream or yogurt to add richness. Remove from heat.
- Make the béchamel sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to form a roux without browning. Gradually add warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) to preheat while you assemble the lasagna.
- Assemble the lasagna: Lightly grease the baking dish. Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom. Layer 3-4 lasagna sheets over the sauce. Spread one-third of the vegetable-paneer masala over the sheets, followed by a layer of béchamel and a sprinkle of grated cheese. Repeat layers twice more, ending with béchamel and cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
Pro tip: For a vegan variation, substitute paneer with tofu or crumbled tempeh, and use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to suit your taste and seasonal availability.
If you prefer a spicier version, add chopped green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder to the masala base.
Try layering with ready-made Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes for a dairy-free creamy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Protein | 15 g |
Carbohydrates | 40 g |
Fat | 12 g |
Fiber | 6 g |
Calcium | 250 mg |
Vitamin A | 1200 IU |
Serving Suggestions
This Indian-style veg lasagna pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon and chaat masala for a tangy contrast. Alternatively, serve it alongside Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore for a full meal experience.
For a light and refreshing accompaniment, a bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating is also a wonderful option.
Conclusion
Combining the comforting layers of Italian lasagna with the vibrant, aromatic spices of India makes this veg lasagna a truly special dish. It’s a perfect way to bring together family and friends over a meal that’s both familiar and exciting.
The recipe is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences and is packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish the body and delight the taste buds.
Next time you want to impress your guests or simply enjoy a hearty dinner, try this Indian-style veg lasagna. It’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and cultures all baked into one delicious casserole.
Don’t forget to explore more exciting vegetarian and vegan recipes to keep your meals fresh and inspiring!
📖 Recipe Card: Veg Lasagna in Indian Style
Description: A flavorful twist on classic lasagna using Indian spices and vegetables. This dish combines layers of spiced veggies, paneer, and tomato gravy for a hearty meal.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT60M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna sheets
- 1 cup paneer, crumbled
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers), chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 cup fresh coriander, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Boil lasagna sheets until al dente, drain and set aside.
- Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add onions and ginger-garlic paste; sauté until golden.
- Add pureed tomatoes and spices; cook until oil separates.
- Add mixed vegetables, cook until tender, then stir in crumbled paneer and coriander; mix well.
- In a baking dish, layer lasagna sheets, vegetable mixture, and sprinkle some mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers and finish with cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 38 g
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